2.5 or maybe 3 stars. ( )

The comments on the back side of a book I always read with a certain suspicion. I was interested in this book, but wasn't sure I should buy it. Therefore I lent it from the library first.

I was sold immediately from the first page I read. The colourful style of writing made me feel as if I was there when it all happened, she took me with her on her journey and I was sad when the book came to an end. I hadn't expected that, because I had no experience with Chinese authors and their way of writing. But... I liked it very much. ( )

A fascinatin insight into growing up in China under mao. Lian, daughter of intellectuals, is banished to a work camp with her parents. She goes to live in her mother's work camp and is taught by China's finest philosophers etc. The book looks at the social positions of the intellectuals and the class system. Lian tries to get Kim integrated into her class but this fails. ( )